WK15B / MICA (P) 144/08/2012
WEEKENDER JANUARY 18 - 24, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND filled with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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Where to dine
>>
WEARing THE SNAKE
with YOUR
This Chinese New Year season, we show you how to carry the Year of the Snake with class when you visit friends and family
Valentine Valentine’s Day is the epitome of romance. Enjoy love over a candlelit dinner, in a place that sets the mood
04
SASSY APPLE DELIGHT
• Continues on page 4...
Chef Seki-san of Ikyu restaurant creates a Fuji apple dessert that you can make on your own at home
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Fantastic pho feast
The search for authentic pho is over, with good Vietnamese food at a good price
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VENTS
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
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H EX
Toko Shinoda - Mirage
IT IB
ST U M EE S
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02 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 18 - 24, 2013
Yi Bo - He Meets Her
In Symphony: The Graceful World of Sumi
President’s
Design Award
Until March, 12pm-6pm
2012 Exhibition Until 15 Feb, 8.30am-7pm The exhibition showcases the works of the Designers of the Year, as well as the Designs of the Year. This prestigious award is the highest honour accorded to designers and designs from across all disciplines. The recipients are the bearers of excellence in design, and help raise general awareness and appreciation of quality design. URA Centre, Level 1 Atrium, 45 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069118
The Crucible Until 23 Feb, 3pm, 4pm & 8pm, $39-$62
Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
W If you would like your event listed, please email the details and pictures (where applicable) to
events@weekender.com.sg 2 weeks before your event date.
Guns” and “Slow Cruel Hands of Time”, and kick-start 2013 with a rockin’ night out. Get ready to make some awesome memories. Tickets from Sistic. Fort Canning Park, 51 Canning Rise, Singapore 179872
Listings must arrive in email Wednesday two weeks before publication. Listings are free but, as space is limited, inclusion is not guaranteed. Nevertheless, we try our best to include every listing possible.
TICKETED EVENTS
2013 Sally Yeh, Intimately Yours Concert 19 Jan, 7.30pm, $88-$168 Join Canto-pop veteran Sally Yeh in her first concert since her sevenyear hiatus. Be mesmerised by her notable hits such as “Dawn, Please Do Not Come”, “A Woman’s Weakness” and “Heart of Fire”. Her powerhouse vocals will not disappoint in her comeback concert. If you’re a fan, this would be an excellent chance to catch her live. Tickets from Sistic. The Max Pavilion, Singapore Expo Hall 10, 1 Expo Drive, #01-01, Singapore 486150 Art Stage Singapore 2013 Until 27 Jan, Thu to Sun, various times, $30 Art Stage Singapore is Asia’s premier international contemporary art fair and the rendezvous point for collectors, artists, enthusiasts and professionals. For the fair’s third edition, key show components are the Galleries and Project Stage sections, the Singapore Platform, the Indonesian Pavilion, a country platform for Australia and New Zealand, and lectures with special guest speakers at the fairgrounds. Visitors can look forward to a new digital version of the fair as well, Art Stage +. Tickets from Sistic. Sands Expo & Convention Centre 2 Bayfront Avenue, #B2-36, Singapore 018956 Big Night Out 2013 30 Jan, 7pm, $125 Rock out with Grammy awardwinning indie bands such as the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Vampire Weekend and Band of Horses. For one night only, the bands will play at Fort Canning Hill. Enjoy hits such as “Heads will Roll”, “Giving up the
Everything in the World 19 Jan, 8pm, $98-$128 Canada-based bilingual singersongwriter Wanting soared to fame with her debut album Everything in the World. She has also bagged three top awards at the recent Global Chinese Music Awards 2012, including Outstanding Regional Artiste Award (Beijing). Be captivated with her vocals as she performs hits like “You exist in my song”, “Everything in the world” and “Life is like a song”. Tickets from Sistic. The Star Theatre, The Star Performing Arts Centre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617 F.I.R Light Up The Way 26 Jan, 8pm, $88-$158 After a three-year long hiatus since their last concert tour, Faye, Ian and Real are back with the hope of bringing a seed of light into the hearts of their fans. With Real assuming the role of music director for the first time, the guitarist promises fresh musical arrangements to their classics such as Fly Away, Lydia, Our Love and A Thousand Years of Love. Tickets from Sistic. The Max Pavilion @ Singapore Expo Hall 10, 1 Expo Drive, #01-01, Singapore 486150 Goh Lay Kuan and Kuo Pao Kun 21-22 Jan, 8pm, $25 In conjunction with “A Life of Practice – Kuo Pao Kun Exhibition”, the National Museum presents “Goh Lay Kuan & Kuo Pao Kun” directed by internationallyacclaimed theatre director Ong Keng Sen, who sifted through over 40 hours of oral history interviews from the National Archives and then juxtaposed them with the seminal text and plays of Kuo Pao Kun. The sensory performance depicts an intimate portrait of this pioneering arts couple of Singapore. For more information, visit www.nationalmuseum.sg. Tickets from Sistic. National Museum of Singapore, Exhibition Gallery 2, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
Written by master playwright Arthur Miller, the story depicts a local minister, Reverend Parris, and his daughter who has fallen into a comatose state. Finding almost no medical reason, rumours of witchcraft begin to spread. Parris’ niece, Abigail Williams, picks up on the rumours and lies about seeing the devil amongst the townsfolk. As more townspeople are picked out as witches, will the community continue to sing the death knell as a holy hymn? Or do they want to kill the accused because they believe they are witches, or do they believe the accused are witches as they want to kill? Tickets from Sistic.
Hollywood Film Institute – Dov Simens’ 2-Day Film School 19 Jan, 9am-6pm, $550 Mr Dov Simens, founder of Hollywood Film Institute in California, will be in Singapore to teach his world-famous Dov Simens’ 2-Day Film School, the same course that launched the careers of Dark Knight director Christopher Nolan, Sherlock Holmes director Guy Ritchie and Spy Kids franchise director Robert Rodriguez, to name a few. Even cult classic director Quentin Tarantino swears by this course. Learn insider tips and techniques that you’ll never learn at film school. Register at www.hollywoodinasia.com Laneway Festival 26 Jan, 12pm-12am, $145 Quintessential indie rock festival St Jerome’s Laneway returns to Singapore for a third successive year. See breakout singer Gotye and Kimbra of Somebody That I Used To Know sing their hit live, as well as alternative band Kings of Convenience. Other performers include Japanadroids, Nicolas Jaar, Of Monsters & Men, Alt-J, Bat for Lashes, Cloud Nothings, Divine Fits, Polica, Real Estate, Tame Impala and Yeasayer. Tickets from Sistic. The Meadow, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953 M1 Singapore Fringe Festival: Best Of By The Necessary Stage 24-27 Jan, 3pm & 8pm, $19-$30 Award-winning actress Siti Khalijah goes front and centre in this brand new one-woman show speciallycreated for her by Alvin Tan and Haresh Sharma. Best Of looks at issues of the day through collective stories and personal reflection. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 M1 Singapore Fringe Festival: Déproduction 24-25 Jan, 8pm, $19-$30 Through two engaging solo pieces, Déproduction raises the question of how culture influences the building blocks of our identity. The first part is interpreted by Kazuma Glen Motomura as an account of exchanges on dance between the choreographer and his dance during this period. It explores the dancer’s profession and political context as well as a Japanese man’s position in the artistic context. The second performance by Airi Suzuki recounts the story of an imaginary couple, Marc and Yukiko, with the themes of marriage, seduction, love and sex to explore and question the issue of cultural imprinting on the development of the female identity. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 M1 Singapore Fringe Festival: Xtra Large 22-23 Jan, 8pm, $19-$30 In their XL – or even XXL – bodies, three teenagers live their emotions to their fullest, simply because for them, everything inside and outside is extreme and extremely funny. These teenagers want to re-invent the world, and to disseminate new
fruits within it. A symbolic fruit that we can taste, admire, destroy, give and exchange. One with which we play, dance, smile at and weep over. An innocuous fruit has thus transformed into an excuse to play, to revolt, to seduce and transform. Emotions burst forth to the fore from tenderness to anger, from fresh youthful feelings to hot-blooded intensity; these teen characters captivate us from start to finish. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Kukoku Tamura Ancient Fantasy Brilliance III
FREE EVENTS Agostino Bonalumi: The Glass of the Shadows Until 24 Feb, Tue-Sat, 12pm-7pm; Sun, 12pm-6pm The famed Italian abstract artist showcases over ten new works at Gillman Barracks. Known for his play on light and shade, as well as his incorporation of wood and metal in canvas, these works are placed side-by-side with a collection of pieces created during Bonalumi’s 50-year long career. Partners & Mucciaccia, Gillman Barracks, 6 Lock Road Singapore 108934 Band Fiesta In The Park 26 Jan, 4pm-7pm Band Fiesta in the Park will feature school concert bands performing a variety of music. Each school will feature a 20-minute performance and the concert will conclude with a grand finale of a combined band to usher in the Year of the Snake. Schools performing are St Patrick’s School, Nan Chiau High School, Siglap Secondary School, St Stephen’s School, St Anthony’s Primary School and Catholic High School. Shaw Foundation Symphony Stage 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259659 Tel: 6471 7361
Puccini’s: Madama Butterfly 1, 2, 4 & 5 Feb, 8pm, $28-$130 Set in Nagasaki, Japan, the opera relays the tragic love story shared between protagonists Cio-Ciosan, a naïve 15-year-old girl also known as Butterfly, and her dashing American love, US Navy Lieutenant BF Pinkerton. What begins as a delightful tale of happily-ever-after soon metamorphoses into one of longing and loneliness as Pinkerton abandons her for a “proper American wife”. She waits many years for his return while raising their child, only to be rewarded by the sight of Pinkerton and Kate together. The play is sung in Italian with English and Mandarin subtitles. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981
Remy Martin Centaur Dance Showdown Finals 18 Jan, 8pm-11pm, $49 The Rémy Martin Centaur Dance Showdown is a regional dance competition which seeks the ultimate urban dance crew across six countries - Singapore, Malaysia, India, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. Singaporean representative Radikal Forze battles it out in the finals with regional teams. Newly-appointed spokesperson of Remy Martin, Taiwanese pop singer Jolin Tsai, graces the occasion with a special performance. Tickets from Sistic. Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Hall C, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 The Ataris Live In Singapore 22 Jan, 7pm, $75 American punk rock band The Ataris hit our shores for the first time. They have been dubbed the pioneers of pop-punk. Their cover of Don Henley’s “Boys of Summer” reached our airwaves in 2003 and they’ve received mainstream success since. Their songs have been featured in the Spiderman 2 soundtrack with others such as Yellowcard and Maroon 5. The Ataris' singer-songwriter Kristopher Roe released his first solo acoustic album, Hang Your Head in Hope, in November 2011. Tickets from Sistic. The Boiler Room, St James Power Station, 3 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098544
Bras Basah.Bugis Arts Flea Market 19-20 Jan, 1pm-7pm A partnership between Bras Basah.Bugis Precinct and Public Garden, the flea market presents artisans, craftsmen, designers and entrepreneurs who showcase vintage nostalgia, craft products and a multitude of items all designed and created in Singapore. Look out for more information on www.brasbasahbugis.sg ARTrium @ Old Hill Street Police Station, 140 Hill Street, Singapore 179369 Charwei Tsai: A Dedication to the Sea Until 28 Feb, 10am A solo exhibition by Charwei Tsai and curated by Singaporean-based Eugene Tan, the works showcase the relationship between man and the sea in a variety of methods including video installations and inscriptions on various objects found in the ocean. By reflecting on the transient nature of the sea and its limitlessness, Tsai also prompts a reflection on ideas of temporariness within our daily lives. Louis Vuitton Island Maison, 2 Bayfront Avenue, #B2-36, Singapore 018956
Showcasing the minimalist beauty and simplicity of sumi ink-washed artworks, In Symphony shows the finest abstract art pieces made by well-established artists from Japan and other parts of Asia. This two-part exhibition will be an eye-opener for art lovers and those new to sumi. Nikei Fine Art, Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Road, #01-34, Singapore 188719
Last Day on Earth Until 22 Jan, Tue-Sun, 10am-7pm According to the Mayan calendar, which has since been disproved, the end of the world was to have been on 21 Dec, 2012. The members of design collective Artistry and Chemistry interpret what the preapocalyptic world would look like in a series of photographs, prints, sculptures and installations. Artistry, 17 Jalan Pinang, Singapore 199149 Making Heritage Contemporary: A Conversation with Didier Repellin 19 Jan, 2pm-3.30pm Chief architect for Historic Monuments at the French Heritage Society, Didier Repellin, will discuss the approach and policy on how built heritage should develop hand-in-hand with the industry in terms of legislation, restoration techniques, safety codes, as well as urban design aesthetics. Learn valuable insights into keeping heritage fresh and modern. Registration is required. Email nhb_ nationalmonuments@nhb.gov.sg for more information. National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897 Rania Matar: Ordinary Lives – Women of the Middle-East Until 27 Jan, 12pm-9.30pm This Lebanese-American photographer portrays the beauty of women in the Middle-East getting on with their everyday lives despite the turmoil. She explores the universal and diverse aspects of humanity – whether a mother, child or young woman, regardless of social status, religion or nationality. Sana Gallery, 12 Blair Road, Singapore 089912 All events listed here are accurate at the the time of print, or are listed as stated by the organisers. Please check with the relevant organisers and contacts for more information and to book tickets.
WEEKENDER ABOUT US We are a Social Enterprise! Besides enriching the lives of our readers, we provide training and employment for disadvantaged Singaporeans from CDCs, ISCOS and IMH. Our humble team:
Editorial Director Frank Young frank@weekender.com.sg Editor Lester J Wan Writer Cheryl Chia Art Director Nicodemus Aw Graphic Designer Foo Dun Jie Sales Director David Phey Sales Manager Seth Leow CONTACT US: Advertising Sales: seth@weekender.com.sg Enquiries: +65 6493 2001 general@weekender.com.sg
Face to Face with Boey Kim Cheng & Felix Cheong 19 Jan, 2pm-4pm Come join two of the most outstanding English-language writers that Singapore has produced, in this latest instalment of Face to Face at Select Books. Former classmates at NUS but now engaged in creative pursuits in different lands, the two Young Artist Award winners will read from their latest works, and converse with each other and the audience on topics related to literature and home. Felix Cheong is the author of Vanishing Point (Ethos Books, 2012) and Boey Kim Cheng is the author of Clear Brightness (Epigram Books, 2012). Select Books, 51 Armenian Street, Singapore 179939, Tel: 6337 9319
Weekender Group Pte Ltd 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998 CRN# 201212438E MICA (P) 144/08/2012 Disclaimer: The illustrations, photographs, views and statements expressed by our contributors, bloggers, illustrators, or writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Weekender Group Private Limited. Weekender Group Private Limited does not warrant the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of those views or statements and do not accept any legal liability whatsoever arising from any reliance on the views, statements and subject matter. © Copyright Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all rights including those in copyright in the content of this publication are owned by or controlled for these purposes by Weekender Group Pte Ltd. Copyrights to photographs, Illustrations, or any other forms of work which appear in this publication provided by non-Weekender Group Pte Ltd contributors are owned and controlled their respective creators.Except as otherwise expressly permitted under copyright law or Weekender Group Pte Ltd, the content of this publication may not be copied, reproduced, republished, downloaded, posted, broadcast or transmitted in any way without first obtaining our written permission or that of the copyright owner.
JANUARY 18 - 24, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
FASHIO
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Shangri-la Python Satchel
Channel the Snake zodiac by incorporating elements into your outfit
“Impress your kin this year by adding snakeskin inspired accents to your visitation outfit.”
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Mongolian Snake Embossed Clutch
G-shock concept Japanese brand Casio opens their first G-Shock concept store at Plaza Singapura
Incorporate the year of the Snake into your outfits with the right accessories
Snazzy snakeskin
Channel chinoiserie chic and impress your kith and kin this Chinese New Year by adding snakeskin-inspired accents to your New Year visitation outfit. Dressing top-to-toe in snakeskin may be way too kitsch for most people, but introducing subtle hints of the reptilian print may possibly deflect the “When are you getting married?” questions to your statement piece. The Shangri-La Python Satchel ($2,715) and the matching Shangri-La Python Cuff ($545) carry the right amount of snakeskin detail with elements of jade and Chinese notes. They also come in festive red for those who prefer a more eye-catching shade. Men can get in on the snake trend as well, without looking like an over-the-hill playboy. Look spiffy in a crisp, white shirt and link up your cuffs with these Sterling Silver Cufflinks with Snakes ($1,335).
You can also get a pair of reptile-printed shoes for an additional punch of festivity. Other places you can look at are:
Emblem Asian brand Emblem carries its line of genuine snakeskin ballerina flats and heels in vibrant shades of cobalt blue, fuchsia pink and lemon yellow. They also sell snakeskin handbags and clutches with chinoiserie hardware such as lionhead knockers and metallic borders. Visit www.emblemboutique.bigcartel.com Diva Australian accessories brand Diva is known for bringing in a wide array of necklaces, rings, earrings, etc. You name it, they’ve got it. They also have snakeskin-inspired collar-pieces, double-
rings, Cleopatra-esque cuffs and even iPhone covers. Get some sparkly bling as well while you’re at it. Diva is located in major shopping malls around Singapore. AsiaFashionInc This Singaporean website curates the best of Asian brands, showcasing unique one-of-a-kind pieces that will ensure that you stand out in the crowd. They also carry a large selection of items from brands such as Emblem, Triologie and Depression. They are also currently in the pop-up store The Emporium, located at Millenia Walk.
Snake Silver Cuff Links
Shou Leather Bangles
Visit www.asiafashioninc.com for more information.
Fans of Casio’s G-Shock and Baby-G range can rejoice as Casio’s first concept store has opened at Plaza Singapura. To mark the opening of the Casio G-Shock concept store, AOS, a six-person DJ/MC group comprising three Butter Factory resident DJs – Andrew T, Dave Does and Stanley – and three other international talents – T.T, Hapa & N’fa and The Killer Gerbil, the alter ego of local visual artist Luthfi Mustafah – helped launched two limited edition watches, specially for the event. The collective’s collaboration, G-Shock X AOS G-8900A, features a sound wave motif symbolising the power of music on a white background, moving the focus to the pattern which represents the group’s passion for their profession. For those who prefer dark watches with colourful accents, the G-Shock X The Killer Gerbil GD-100 features an illustration of the Killer Gerbil over the lower strap, a blue logo with the character’s name, and text in graffiti font. In conjunction with G-Shock’s 30th Anniversary and “Shock The World” celebrations, there will be a G-Shock design competition where participants can create a watch design of their own, to win attractive prizes. Check out the Casio Facebook page for more. Both are $209 each at the G-Shock concept store. G-Shock X The Killer Gerbil-GD100
By Cheryl Chia
The store is located at Plaza Singapura, 68 Orchard Road, #03-63, Singapore 238839
HOME DECOR Silk cushion covers with modern Chinese motifs complement traditional style
Matching mugs and coasters from Ikea bring you “Fortune”
“the chinese believe it is auspicious to decorate the home to invite vitality, luck and happiness to start the new year in propitious fashion.”
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he signs of Spring are once again blooming around us. Splashes of red and gold illuminate Chinatown and other parts of the city, while joyous tunes of wealth, prosperity and festivity are beginning to fill the air with a resplendent and familiar comfort. The Chinese believe it is auspicious to decorate the home to invite vitality, luck and happiness to start the New Year in propitious fashion. We give you suggestions to adorn your home, and impress guests!
Bring Spring
into your home Impress your house guests and invite wealth and happiness into your humble abode with these creative Chinese New Year adornments By lee liying
A Feast for the Eyes If you are cooking up a storm for the reunion dinner, complete your sumptuous spread with an equally delightful visual feast. Start with beautiful crockery sets to improve the aesthetic, and whet the appetite. The Double Happiness dinner plates from Goods of Desire are a shade of imperial red, with the doubling of the Chinese character “Happiness” modernised and abstracted into a beautiful, classic design. To match these, tea pots and cups complete the set. Ikea has a New Year themed tableware collection with the auspicious Chinese character of “Fortune” printed on the mugs, and matching coasters. The Chinese zodiac chopsticks from Shanghai Tang make an impressive addition to your tableware. Made of wood and stainless steel, they are mounted with intricately-designed interpretations of the animals from the zodiac, adding a unique, artistic and classy touch to any dining experience. Your guests are bound to be bowled over by the designs. Rest on Silk Add a touch of glamour to your couch with silk cushion covers with Chinese motifs, jacquards
Chinese zodiac chopsticks make excellent conversation pieces
and decorative elements. The Double Happiness embroidered cushion cover is perfect, with auspicious characters melding into intricate motifs. Other designs such as the Dancing Lotus Satin Cushion and the Ming Vase Silk Cover also offer a homely and welcoming feel. Check out other unique items by Shanghai Tang that would go well. Flowers in Bloom Flowers are undoubtedly the most beautiful decorations that can liven up your home and spirits. Flowers and plants represent the joy of the reawakening of nature after a long period of winter. Grab the specially-designed pots from Ikea for your plants and flowers, to bring in more happiness and prosperity. W
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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
04 • WEEKENDER • JANUARY 18 - 24, 2013
OOD
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Japanese Grilled Apple
“with all the good times and memories, a candlelit dinner in a restaurant is the best place to reminisce.”
• Continued from page 1...
IKYU Style
In the second in a series featuring various chefs sharing their recipes using ingredients from Japan, Chef Seki San creates a delightful Fuji apple dessert
At Osia at RWS, you can have a five-course dinner with a complimentary glass of champagne Have an ‘underwater’ dining experience at Ocean Restaurant at RWS
By Lester J Wan
RECIPE 1 Chef Takuma Seki, 38, of Ikyu Japanese restaurant, is a picture of an amiable gentleman with a youthful humour. To some, these qualities may belie his bountiful experience. Chef Seki San has worked in restaurants in the US, Paris and Singapore for 20 years. Japan is known for exporting beautifully-shaped apples that are highly juicy and sweet, and that is why they were selected for this recipe. Japanese apples have excellent size, roundness, and other ideal characteristics of the fruit. The authentic Japanese Fuji apples that we bought from a supermarket here were imported from Aomori prefecture in Japan, where the Fuji apple originates from. “The Fuji apples were already so delicious on their own; I almost didn’t want to touch them!” he says, expressing his reluctance to cook or prepare them due to their delectability in their natural state. He says, compared with the Japanese Fuji apple, other types of red apples can be a bit sour to taste. With all the virtues of the Japanese Fuji apple, Chef Seki San keeps his concept simple to complement the fruit. This recipe is so simple; you can easily make it on your own, at home.
Ikyu, 5 Yong Siak Street, Singapore 168643
Japanese foods. Your quality time.
Ingredients • Japanese Fuji apple • Rice paper (can be bought from supermarkets) • Butter • Cream cheese • Sugar • Cinnamon powder • Mint leaves • Vanilla ice cream Instructions 1. First cut the Japanese Fuji apple into two halves. 2. Next, use a scoop to remove the core and the seeds. 3. Fill the empty core of each Fuji apple half with the cream cheese, a bit of butter and sugar. 4. Sprinkle some cinnamon powder, according to taste. 5. Wrap the filled Fuji apple half in rice paper. 6. Paint the rice paper covering with butter. 7. Leave the ‘packaged’ Fuji apple to bake, for about 20 minutes. 8. Once ready, you should smell a rich and sweet aroma 9. Scoop a dollop of vanilla ice cream and place in on top of the Fuji apple. 10. Garnish with a mint leaf and a sprinkling of cinnamon powder, before serving.
Where to dine with
your Valentine Valentine’s day is the epitome of romance. enjoy love over a candlelit dinner, in a place that sets the mood
W
ith Valentine’s Day fastapproaching, you need a perfect place to wine, dine and romance the love of your life. With all the good times and memories, a candlelit dinner in a nice restaurant is the best place to reminisce. Book quickly. Here are a few special arrangements.
Baby Vegetables and Orange Glaze; or Medallions of Beef on Spinach Puree, Pomme Anna and Morel Mousseline Sauce (add $12++); or Baked Snapper with Shallot Herb Crust, Crabmeat Ravioli, Pancetta Crisps and Lobster Emulsion. Cap your sweet night with a Molten Chocolate Fondant, Raspberry Coulis and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream.
Valentine's Special at Masons Escape from the crowds into a tranquil nest and enjoy a romantic dinner for two. This Valentine's, treat your soul mate to an evening of indulgence and splendour. Nestled in a colonial building is Masons, the new restaurant from the Verve Group. Be pampered with warm and friendly service. The exquisite feast will leave you in paradise. This is ideal for lovebirds. For Feb 14, Masons’ one day only special menu has three courses for $85++, or $160++ for two. Begin with a starter of Trio of Baked Oysters with Gazpacho Shooter; or Pan-Seared Foie Gras, Brioche Toast and Kumquat Compote; or Puree of Celeriac Laced with White Truffle Oil and Topped with Seared Scallop. For the main course, choose from Crisp Roasted Duck Leg Confit on Onion Rosti, Cumin Scented
Masons (Verve Group), 8 Lock Road, Singapore 108936. Tel: 6694 2216 Valentine’s at Goodwood Park Goodwood Park Hotel is a colonial heritage that dates to 1900, making it a highly romantic setting. At Gordon Grill, couples will be charmed by the superb cuisine and classy ambience. The seven-course menu showcases modern European cuisine with exquisite ingredients. In celebration of its 50th anniversary in 2013, every couple who orders the Valentine’s menu will receive a $50 dining voucher for Gordon Grill on another occasion. The Valentine’s Day set includes: Cold Angel Hair Pasta with Sakura Ebi, King Crab and Oscietra Caviar; Fruit de Mer
Eat prosperously in the
RECIPE 2
Snake Year Lou hei! Huat ah! Usher in the Lunar New Year with good fortune and good eats By Cheryl Chia
Stir Fried Slipper Lobtser Tail with Scallop in Homemade Spicy Sauce
Steamed dumplings
Treasures of Spring Yu-Sheng
These dumplings are steamed using the traditional dim sum style bamboo steamer but if you don’t have one, you can just steam them on a plate This amount of ingredients makes about 16 dumplings. Ingredients • 100g of shelled and de-veined fresh prawn meat • 80g of minced pork or chicken • 50g of peeled and chopped fresh water chestnuts • 4 cloves of minced garlic • 1 tablespoon of chopped spring onions • A few leaves of Napa cabbage Marinade Ingredients (A) • 1 teaspoon of light soy sauce • 1 teaspoon of sesame oil • A small pinch of salt • 1/2 teaspoon of castor or super fine sugar • 1/2 tablespoon of corn starch • A few dashes of white pepper powder • 1 teaspoon of Chinese cooking wine • 150g of round dumpling skins Instructions 1. Process half of the prawns in a food blender for a few seconds to get finely minced prawn meat. For the remaining half of the prawns, chop them up roughly using a knife. 2. In a bowl, add minced prawns, minced meat, water chestnuts, garlic, spring onions and the marinade ingredients at (A). Mix well to form a paste.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Place a piece of dumpling skin on the palm of your hand. Scoop 1/2 a tablespoon of dumpling filling onto the centre of the skin. Add a few pieces of chopped prawns. Dab your finger in water and wet the edges of the skin with your moist finger. Fold the dumpling in half to form a halfcrescent shape. Starting from one end and with slightly moist fingers, pleat the edges towards the centre. Repeat with the other end. Wrap dumplings until you finish all the filling. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 30 seconds to soften them. Arrange softened cabbage such that there are still exposed holes at the bottom so that steam can enter the basket. Place dumplings on the cabbage without them touching one another. Wet the steaming cloth and wring lightly. Drape the cloth over the dumplings to prevent condensed steam from dripping onto the dumplings. Cover with lid then fold in the four corners of the cloth over the lid. Steam on high heat until the dumplings are cooked, about 10 minutes. Steam in batches. Serve with black vinegar and finelyshredded ginger or chilli sauce.
Recipe taken from www.noobcook.com
Steamed Glutinous Rice with Ginger-Infused Spring Chicken, Lily Bulb & Dried Scallop
‘Eating snake’ no longer means a bad thing when it’s the Year of the Snake. Every year, restaurants choose a theme menu for each animal zodiac and this year is no different. Carousel at Royal Plaza on Scotts takes it to another level with their Snake Year-inspired twist to the traditional yu-sheng dish. The Treasures of Spring Yu-Sheng ($88-$118) contains snakehead fish, snakeskin fruit and snake gourd coupled with ingredients such as chuka wakame, kombu seaweed, fried ginger strips, crispy salmon skin as well as crispy silver fish. And topped with kumquat and yuzu sauce, the common raw salmon salad has been transformed into a novel talking point during your family dinner this Chinese New Year.
The fried ginger strips complement the snakehead fish well, giving it a sweet and clean taste. The fried silver fish and salmon skin give the salad the requisite crunch in the absence of the traditional crackers. The tangy and sweet mixture of the snakeskin fruit and gourd complete the yu-sheng with a tart finish. Other festive dishes include a HomeSmoked Green Tea Cod Fish Honey Glazed topped with a yuzu fruit, and a delightfully-familiar Steamed Glutinous Rice with Ginger-Infused Spring Chicken, Lily Bulb and Dried Scallop. Royal Plaza on Scotts also has Abalone Yu-Sheng ($98-$138) should you feel more indulgent, featuring abalone slices with traditional preserved vegetable strips and plum sauce.
Home-Smoked Green Tea Cod, Honey Glazed with Yuzu
The origins of yu-sheng It is believed yu-sheng originated from Southern China. The story tells of a couple stranded by bad weather in a temple with nothing to eat but a fish they caught. They found a bottle of vinegar and added it to the raw fish. Today’s more cheery version and its consumption on Chinese New Year appear to be particular to Singapore and Malaysia. The four local chefs credited for developing the modern dish are the Master Chefs at Lai Wah Restaurant and their ex-colleagues from the Cathay Restaurant. Carousel, Royal Plaza on Scotts 25 Scotts Road, Singapore 228220 Tel: 6589 7599
JANUARY 18 - 24, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
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The outdoor terrace by the poolside at L’Espresso, Goodwood Park Hotel, is perfect for couples who prefer al fresco
under the stars. The Valentine’s Set includes: Cold Angel Hair Pasta with Sakura Ebi, King Crab and Farm Caviar; Fruit de Mer of Langoustine, Hokkaido Scallop, Salmon Trout, Ginger and Tomato Dressing; and Passionfruit Mango Sorbet. There will also be: Grilled US Black Angus Beef Fillet with Mushrooms, Seasonal Vegetables and Bordelaise Jus (for him); Roasted Black Cod with Crustacean Minestrone (for her); Sweet Lover’s Secret of Raspberry, Chocolate, Lychee and Rose (to share); with Goodwood’s blended coffee or fine teas, and petit fours. This package is $268 per couple and includes a demi bottle of champagne and a rose. A more value-for-money option would be the five-course carte at the Coffee Lounge. The Valentine’s Day Set includes: Pan-Seared Duck Breast with Arugula and Caramelised Pears Tossed in Pear and Sherry Dressing; Asian-Spiced Crab Cake with Seaweed and Egg Remoulade; Roasted VineRipened Tomato and Basil Soup with Balsamic; Slow-Cooked Salmon with Lentil du Puy and Red Wine Beurre Blanc. There is also the Valentine dessert buffet, and coffee or tea. This set is $168 per couple and includes two flutes of champagne and a rose. Goodwood Park Hotel, 22 Scotts Road, Singapore 228221. Tel: Gordon Grill 6730 1744; L’Espresso 6730 1743; Coffee Lounge 6730 1746.
Masons gives you a candlelit dinner in a colonial setting surrounded by nature
of Langoustine, Hokkaido Scallop, Salmon Trout, Ginger and Tomato Dressing; French Pigeon, Foie Gras Brûlée and Black Truffle Essence; Slow-Cooked Hen Egg with Iberico Ham Consommé and Green Lip Abalone; and Passionfruit Mango Sorbet. There will also be: Grilled US Wagyu Beef with Mushrooms, Seasonal Vegetables and Bordelaise Jus (for him); Loup de Mer Fillet with Crustacean Minestrone (for her); Sweet Lover’s Secret of Raspberry, Chocolate, Lychee and Rose (to share); with Goodwood’s blended coffee or fine teas, and petit fours. This package is $398 per couple and includes a demi bottle of champagne and a rose. The outdoor terrace overlooking the pool at L’Espresso is perfect for couples who prefer an al fresco setting
Celebrate LOVE at RWS Resorts World Sentosa brings you special menus across its restaurants. Turn romantic moments into timeless memories at Joël Robuchon Restaurant. Let her know she’s special by treating her to a luxurious meal. On this Valentine’s, romance your special someone with the celebrity chef’s exquisite nine-course set menu: Pan-Fried Scallop with Fregolas on Coral Emulsion; Roasted Turbot and Chestnut Casserole with Yellow Wine Jus; Grilled Beef, Roasted; Foie Gras with Port; and Cheese Macaroni Black Pepper Crystalline. Complete your sweet meal with Apple Pie Reversed, Sweet Caramel Ice cream on a Spicy Crumble. This Menu De La Saint Valentin dinner is available on Feb 14 at $380++ per person. For reservations, call 6577 7888. Make Valentine’s extra-special with dinner at Osia. You can choose from either a four or five-course set dinner, which comes with a complimentary glass of Laurent Perrier Brut NV, and with enticing dishes such as Essence
of Chicken with Red King Crab Curd and Black Truffle Oil; Hokkaido Scallop with Jamón Serrano Mantle; Saffron Potato Espuma; Vinegar Barley Pops; a choice of tender Hay Smoked Black Angus Beef Tenderloin or Fresh Atlantic Cod, and a Valentine Sweet Surprise Peach Melba to end the evening on a sweet note. This four or five-course set is available on Feb 14 at $190++ or $210++ per person. For reservations, call 6577 6560. Newly-opened Ocean Restaurant offers a unique ‘underwater’ dining experience – you dine with a view of the wondrous marine life that is the Open Ocean Habitat at the S.E.A. Aquarium. Choose from tantalising delights like the Char Grill Medallion Angus Tenderloin with Rich Red Wine Jus or Oven Roasted Cod Serves with Lemon Beurre Blanc and the ‘After Eight’ Mint Variation with Chocolate for an even sweeter finale. This Valentines’ Set is available on both Feb 13 and 14, at $158++ per person. For reservations, call 6577 8888 Turn romance into passion at Italian restaurant, Palio, with a five-course “Afrodisiaco” dinner menu to turn up the heat this Valentine’s Day. Chef Davide Bizzarri has incorporated some of the most delicious aphrodisiacs fresh from the ocean into the menu, which allows guests to choose from succulent mains such as the Grilled Prawn and King Scallop with Light Red Capsicum Coulis that comes with Mash Potatoes and Zucchini Flower Tempura or the special homemade flower-shaped Pasta ‘Gigli’ with Langoustine and Caviar and Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce. Fire up your passion! The lovely Chocolate Hazelnut Gateau with Lemon Supreme Dressed in Raspberry Compote accompanied with a scoop of refreshing Yoghurt Sorbet is specially created for this loving occasion and should not be missed. This five-course “Afrodisiaco” dinner is available on Feb 14 at $148++ per couple and comes with a complimentary glass of Kir Royale and a cuddly teddy bear. For reservations, call 6577 8888. You can also have a heavenly treat at ESPA at RWS. Indulge yourself and your loved one from top-to-toe with a pampering package for two, including a dinner at Tangerine Spa Café with a glass of champagne and a gift set worth $160. Call 6577 8880 for details. Your partner will love you more. W Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
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Good pho is hard to come by in Singapore
Satisfy your
Vietnamese pho cravings Food blogger Daniel finds out what the hype about Nam Nam Noodle Bar is all about By Daniel Ang Since so many said good things about Nam Nam Noodle Bar – the new Vietnamese restaurant – I just had to give it a try. The name ‘Nam Nam’ is a play on the word ‘Viet-nam’, and it is a more “budget” offshoot of the Les Amis Group’s Annam Vietnamese Cuisine. It is not difficult to see why this Vietnamese food joint is so popular. The Pho and Banh Mi toasted baguette sets are affordable for the lunch crowd – $9.90 nett, with spring rolls and a drink. The signature Pho is inspired by that of Hanoi, where the rice flour noodles are cooked with broth that is boiled for over 24 hours, and come in choices of Pho with chicken, beef balls, beef steak slices, beef combination or Wagyu beef slices ($16.90 for this). And, no MSG at all. The Southern Rolls with sweet shrimps, egg and fresh herbs were nothing to scream about. Its dip made of hoisin sauce fried with chicken liver was delicious. But you cannot depend on dips to save the day. I love Pho, but just cannot find decent ones in Singapore. For those who’ve not had Pho, it’s similar to the Cantonese hor fun from where its name may have derived (or some say the French pot-au-feu beef stew). Both the Pho Beef Steak Slices and Pho Chicken set were not too bad, with the broth warm, lightly-sweet and tasty. The meat slices are tenderthin and easy to bite, though it’s a pity the noodles got a little clumpy. The Pho here may not be comparable to that in Vietnam, but it’s definitely worthy enough. The Flower Crab Noodle Soup is calling out to me next. I’ll be back. Nam Nam Noodle Bar, Raffles City, 252 North Bridge Road, #B1-46, Singapore 179103. Tel: 6336 0550. Opening Hours: Daily, 8am-10pm. Taken from danielfooddiary.com
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